In brief
Despite local excitement, Kim's project for attracting foreign currency may struggle under ongoing sanctions.
North Korea unveiled the Wonsan Kalma seaside resort this week, marking a significant milestone in leader Kim Jong-un's push to revive tourism as a crucial source of foreign currency amid stringent international sanctions. The sprawling resort, which officially opened its doors to visitors last Tuesday, features a scenic 2.5-mile coastline on the country's central east coast. While North Korean state media reported enthusiastic families enjoying the beach, there remains a glaring absence of foreign tourists—a key demographic that Kim had hoped would flock to the area.The Wonsan Kalma resort can accommodate up to 20,000 guests and represents one of Kim's most grandiose initiatives aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector. This ambitious project was showcased at a ceremony attended by Kim, his wife, and daughter that celebrated the resort's completion in late June. The initiative comes in the wake of the United Nations implementing tough sanctions in 2017, which directly impacted North Korea's ability to earn foreign exchange through exports while leaving the tourism industry somewhat insulated.In an ironic twist, the transformation of Kalma Beach serves as a poignant example of Kim's ambitions. Once a site for military exercises involving artillery, the area has been repurposed with modern amenities, including water parks and high-rise hotels, with South Korean media dubbing it "North Korea's Waikiki." However, despite the significant investment and local turnout, the resort remains devoid of international visitors—largely due to ongoing travel restrictions affecting potential tourists from neighboring countries like China.As Kim's vision for a thriving tourism industry clashes with the stark reality of foreign travel limitations, the long-term success of Wonsan Kalma remains uncertain.
